What is the National Trails Volunteer Scheme?
Volunteers perform a vital role in helping to maintain both The Ridgeway and Thames Path National Trails (the two Trails are managed by the same team). They carry out an ongoing programme of maintenance and improvements which include tasks such as vegetation clearance, installing and repairing signs, gates and information boards - and workshop tasks.
Tasks are carried out on most weekdays and occasional weekends, led by staff from the National Trails team. All tools and training are provided and the tasks are a good way to meet like-minded people. Our newsletter has a list of all forthcoming tasks on both Trails and is sent to all volunteers who register onto the scheme.
Alternatively, volunteers can become 'monitors' by adopting a 2-3 mile section of a Trail, walking it once a month and reporting back any problems.Please contact us if you would be interested.
How do I register onto the National Trails Volunteer scheme?
You can download a volunteer information pack and registration form from the bottom of the page.
If you would prefer to receive this material by post please contact our Volunteer Scheme Administrator, by email at NTvolunteers@oxfordshire.gov.uk giving your name and full postal address. If you would like to discuss our opportunities before registering please phone for an informal chat on 01865 810211.
Once we have received your completed registration form, you will be added to the volunteer database and a full Volunteers Welcome Pack will be sent. You will also receive regular newsletters and task diaries and be covered by Oxfordshire County Council insurance.
Task Diaries
Task diaries are posted in advance to registered National Trail Volunteers. In addition, the current task diary can be downloaded at the bottom of this page. To attend a task you must first be registered on the scheme in order to be covered by insurance.
If you are a registered National Trails Volunteer and see a task you would like to help out on, please contact the office and let us know which task you are interested in. We will then get in touch with you to arrange meeting times and venues.
Always call in advance to book and confirm the task, date, time and venue.